Esmeralda Soria, the Democratic incumbent in California’s 27th Assembly District, is running for California’s 14th State Senate District in November 2026 against Republican challenger Darin DuPont, after the two emerged from a three-way June 2026 primary that also included Sanger City Councilwoman Esmeralda Hurtado. The seat is open because incumbent Anna Caballero is term-limited and running for State Treasurer. Soria announced the run in March 2025 rather than seeking Assembly re-election, saying, “I first ran for the State Assembly to solve the problems that have frustrated Central Valley families and small businesses for too long… I have spent my entire career fighting for our working families, farmers, small businesses, and veterans.” Her entry made the district one of the top Republican targets in the state given her relatively moderate profile; a primary opponent, Council President Nelson Esparza, later dropped out and endorsed her. She has been endorsed by Senator Anna Caballero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and the California Legislative Women’s Caucus. Her move to the Senate race leaves her Assembly seat open, with Brian Pacheco and Mike Murphy now competing for it.
